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Question: Panic attacks---kind of like reverse claustrophobia?

(Posted by: meg_reddick on 2009-12-17 22:13:59)

This past week I've had two panic attacks; one Four days ago and one yesterday. Both times, I felt as if the room I was in was too big, kind of like a reverse- claustrophobia. Is there a name for this? Also, I have been battling with what I think is depression for the past few months. I want to go on medication, but my counselor has not brought it up yet. Should I bring it up, or find a new counselor? I'm so lost. Please help :)

Posted by: Magnus on 2009-12-17, 22:22:23

That's called agoraphobia, and there's no medication, short of hardcore stuff that will hurt more than it helps. Find a new counselor if you feel like you need different help.

Posted by: Kellie on 2009-12-17, 23:41:53

I don't know of a name for it, the first guy on here said agoraphobia, but that's the fear of going outside. Maybe that's what its developing into. Suddenly the inside of a place seems to large, that the idea of stepping outside becomes more frightening as the fear develops further. I'm not a psychiatrist, therapist or counselor. I don't have any degree, I do work in mental health though, and I haven't seen anyone with this fear before, but I think you should tell your counselor your fear, the panic attack that comes along with it, and ask if you could be developing agoraphobia. Depression and anxiety are tough to deal with on your own, and your nervousness about asking your counselor about medication seems like proof of your anxiety. You do want to ask about it, but unless your seeing a licensed psychiatrist, a counselor won't be able to prescribe medication. However he or she maybe able to recommend a psychiatrist, or possibly a short inpatient treatment if they feel its necessary to get you started on medicine before your fear and depression worsen. Your doing the right thing, reaching out for help, asking questions. Don't be afraid to bring it up, a counselor knows at some point medication may be needed, so be completely honest with them. Best of luck

Posted by: anonymous on 2009-12-19, 12:14:25

I've experienced pretty much every form of fear or panic, from anxiety. Try to control your breathing and do your best to stay calm. If you can, find a room that doesn't seem as large, like a well lit bathroom. Know that you're safe in your home and tell yourself that. I also suggest that you mention medication to your counselor. That was the first treatment that I received. It has been proven, even in my case, that medication and counseling together will help you overcome depression. Email me if you have any further questions.